22 MPG combined from a twin-turbocharged, all-wheel-drive sports sedan? Sounds about right. The 2024 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport AWD isn’t trying to win any hypermiling competitions. It’s built for brisk acceleration and confident all-weather grip, and the fuel economy is a necessary trade-off. The Q50 Red Sport buyer is prioritizing performance and style over ultimate efficiency, a decision they understand and accept.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2024 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport AWD at 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic, where the turbochargers are constantly spooling up and the engine works harder to overcome inertia. The highway number is more palatable, suggesting that consistent cruising at legal speeds allows the engine to operate closer to its peak efficiency. However, enthusiastic drivers should expect figures below both these estimates in the real world. A lighter foot leads to better fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,650 for the 2024 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport AWD. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. Drivers who frequently drive aggressively might see their fuel costs climb higher than the EPA estimate. Also, fuel prices fluctuate significantly over time and geography.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, your personal fuel economy will likely differ. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, and prolonged idling will all negatively impact your MPG. Conversely, careful driving habits and prioritizing highway miles can help you achieve results closer to the EPA estimates. Factors such as tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even weather conditions can play a role in your overall fuel consumption. Keep up with routine maintenance and inflate your tires to the pressure listed on the tire placard.

How it compares

The fuel economy of the Q50 Red Sport AWD positions it in a specific spot within the competitive landscape. The BMW M340i xDrive, another all-wheel-drive performance sedan, achieves a slightly better 25 MPG combined. The Acura TLX Type S SH-AWD delivers 21 MPG combined, placing it just below the Q50. If fuel efficiency is a high priority, a buyer might consider the Lexus IS 350 AWD, which gets 22 MPG combined, though the Lexus arguably gives away some performance and isn’t in the same category as the Red Sport. The Q50’s fuel consumption is the price to pay for that specific level of performance and style, features valued by the target buyer.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use a light foot on the accelerator. The Q50 Red Sport’s twin-turbo engine is responsive, and it’s tempting to tap into that power frequently. Gentle acceleration and anticipating traffic flow can significantly reduce fuel consumption. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and maintain a consistent pace whenever possible.

Take advantage of the Q50’s drive modes. The “Eco” mode will remap the throttle response and shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency. While it might slightly diminish the car’s spirited character, it can make a noticeable difference on longer drives or in heavy traffic. Don’t confuse the various driving modes as a way of getting better ultimate MPG, as the best way to conserve gas is simply driving responsibility, and not trying to get the best fuel economy out of the sportiest modes.

Minimize idling. Modern engines consume fuel even when stationary. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s generally more efficient to turn off the engine. Restarting the engine consumes less fuel than prolonged idling. This is especially true for turbocharged engines like the one in the Q50 Red Sport, where idling can lead to heat soak and reduced efficiency.

Ensure proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which in turn reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly (at least once a month) and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Proper inflation also improves handling and extends tire life.

Consider your route. Highway driving is generally more fuel-efficient than city driving, so plan your routes accordingly. Also, avoid routes with frequent stop-and-go traffic or steep hills. Using a GPS navigation app can help you find the most efficient route to your destination. Drivers should also look at Q50 MPG across all years to consider alternative years as well as review all Infiniti fuel economy data.